Tantra, a Sanskrit word means to weave, expand, spread or connect. In gay tantra the couple aims to use their opposing flows of energy to reach a deeper connection and level of spirituality. Although many people believe the process is not possible for same sex couples, the increasing numbers of people getting involved shows otherwise. The appeal for many couples is the opportunity provided to become closer and obtain a more complete understanding of their personalities.
Through the practice of tantra individuals often gain increased understanding of their own personality traits. This means that they can learn to accept aspects of themselves which they may not have liked or accepted before. It is a system for personal and spiritual growth not just a means to improve climax or intimacy. Central to the beliefs of tantra is the concept that sexual energy and lust can be used to bring about enlightenment. The aim of tantra is to foster mystical awareness, self acceptance, expand boundaries and to get rid of fear and guilt.
Tantra refers to a body of theories which have been developed from original ideas from Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Many methods are included in the discipline. This means that tantric practice can be very different with different teachers.
Due to the focus on opposing polarities many believe that a man and woman are needed to practice tantra. However in many traditions this is not the case. In Buddhism it is thought that sexuality is a facet of personality and so is irrelevant in tantra. Some traditions focus on the use of Kundalini energy and believe this is the same in all persons. In gay tantra it is possible to use visualization techniques to imagine that one partner is of the opposite sex.
One of the more popular types of gay tantric yoga is a relatively new system called SkyDancer Tantra. It is based on an ancient system probably from Tibet but was developed by Margot Anand Naslednikoy in the Eighties. It is based on the concept of love being similar to a dance in the sky. The name comes from a colleague of a Buddha who was called Big Sky Dancer. Together they created Tantric Buddhism, whose followers were apparently passionate and entirely devoted to their spiritual work.
Meditation is a common practice in tantra. It aids relaxation, visualization and connection to the spiritual realms. Many people start with taking alternate breaths while sitting face to face. Yoga positions are often used and yoga is also popular due to its focus on breathing. Visualization is used in two ways; to imagine Deities and spiritual entities and also to visualize the transference of energy between the two bodies.
Tantric massage is another prevalent way to apply tantra. It is not intended to bring about climax but to release blockages of energy in the body. The masseuse builds up sexual energy in the body and then uses that to unblock the necessary areas.
For those who want to learn more about gay tantra there are many retreats, workshops and gurus available. It is easy to find details of these online. Increasing numbers of same sex couples and single gay people are starting to practice gay tantra. There are a range of methods but the main aim is personal development.
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